TRAFFIC SAFETY HINTS
BY SECRETARY OF STATE JESSE WHITE
SPRINGFIELD — Schooldays are here again and motorists are reminded to obey the law when approaching a stopped school bus and to slow down when entering school zones and residential areas.
Q. During what hours is the 20 mph school zone speed limit in effect?
A. Between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on school days when children are present and signs are posted. Many schools offer after school day care, so motorists need to slow down and practice caution after 4 p.m. as well. Under Illinois law, all school zones are no passing zones.
Q. What is the rule for approaching a stopped school bus on a street with two or more lanes of traffic in each direction?
A. If you are approaching the bus from the opposite direction, you do not need to stop. However, slow down and proceed with caution. Drivers in all lanes of traffic going in the same direction as the bus must stop.
Q. What is the penalty for passing a stopped school bus?
A. If convicted, you will lose your driving privileges for three months. If you receive two convictions within five years, your driving privileges will be suspended for one year. In addition to the suspensions, violators will be fined $150 for the first conviction and $500 for a second or subsequent conviction.
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